Flash floods rush through Ellicott City, toppling buildings

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Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan declared a state of emergency Sunday in Howard County as a massive storm drenched the Baltimore region, triggering flash floods in Ellicott City.

Brown water rushed through Ellicott City’s Main Street, toppling buildings and sweeping up cars like toys. In some areas, water levels reached above the first floor of buildings, Howard County Fire and EMS said.

A flash flood watch is in effect for the region until 2 a.m. Monday.

The department compared the situation to a flash flood in 2016 that left two people dead and forced Ellicott City to rebuild.

Multiple rescues are under way. Howard County Fire and EMS urged residents to evacuate downtown or move to higher ground while rescue teams swarmed the area. No injuries have been reported.

The Roger Carter Community Center is open for those who need a place to shelter.

The National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning around noon for Howard County. At 5:30 p.m., the agency declared a flash food emergency.